Rafael Márquez set to coach Barcelona B
Barcelona parted ways with Sergi Barjuan and they are expected to confirm that the former Mexican international will be his replacement next season.
On Tuesday it was confirmed that Sergi Barjuan will no longer coach Barcelona B, which will be known as Barcelona Atletic for the 2022/23 season, and they will appoint Rafael Marquez as his replacement. The former Mexican international has a very good relationship with president Joan Laporta and he is considered a legend at the club.
Javier Mascherano was considered for the manager job but Laporta believes Marquez is the ‘chosen one.’ The club also announced that as the takeover is done, Barjuan will continue to work within Barcelona’s setup in the same role he had before replacing Garcia Pimienta last year.
Marquez’ legacy with Barcelona
Barcelona wanted a different profile of manager for next season and they believe Rafael Marquez is the perfect man for the job. Even though the 43-year-old doesn’t have much experience as a manager, he knows Barcelona inside out. Another factor of appointing Marquez was because of his good relationship with Xavi and they believe both managers will work closely for the benefit of the club.
As a player, Rafael Marquez signed with FC Barcelona during Laporta’s first stint as president and they both enjoyed the best era in the history of the club. Marquez won two UEFA Champions League, four La Liga trophies and a Copa del Rey.